How to Diagnose ADHD in Adults

Many adults seek an assessment because they are annoyed by the symptoms of ADHD. They could lose their jobs because of delayed deadlines, or struggle in relationships due to their impulsive behavior, or face financial issues due to the fact that they forget bills and lose track of purchases.

Ask your health care provider or a mental health professional about their training and expertise in diagnosing ADHD in adults.

Symptoms

If you suspect that you or your child have ADHD, the first step in getting assistance is to find an expert in health care who will assess your symptoms. Your assessment will consist of physical examinations and a review your medical history. This includes mental health issues as well as substance abuse. It is important to be honest with your doctor about the symptoms and how they impact you. Many people with ADHD hide the problem due to shame or fear of being criticized. However an honest assessment can provide your doctor with a more accurate picture of your life.

Adults differ from children, and therefore diagnosing ADHD is more difficult than diagnosing ADHD in children. The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5), Fifth Edition, by the American Psychiatric Association provides guidelines for diagnosis which are valid for both children and adults. In addition to examining the patient, the doctor might also ask other people in the life of the patientlike spouses or co-habitating partners siblings, parents or coaches and teachers to provide a description of the behavior of the patient and how it has affected them. This can reveal important information that isn't found in tests or checklists.

In certain cases the doctor may want to examine other conditions that can cause similar symptoms to ADHD. These conditions include mood disorders, mental health conditions and physical illnesses or injuries like head trauma. They will also review the person's personal and professional life to determine if their symptoms impact their daily activities.

The signs of adult adhd diagnosis ADHD can range from mild to severe, with moderate symptoms causing difficulties in social and work situations. Severe symptoms can interfere with the performance of a job or school, strain relationships, and make it harder to live an independent life.

Anyone can have ADHD, but it is more common in men and boys than girls. There is no clear explanation for this difference but it could be due to genetic or environmental factors. Studies have shown that certain foods and chemicals can cause ADHD in some people, and it's possible that some people are more likely to develop the condition due to the existence of specific brain structures involved in the processing of stimuli.

Diagnosis

It is not always simple to determine ADHD. Many people are ashamed of their symptoms and find it difficult to talk to an individual who is a mental health professional or health care provider. This can delay the process of evaluation. It is crucial to speak openly and honestly about your symptoms as well as your previous background to ensure an accurate assessment.

During the exam the doctor will use the standardized behavioral rating scales as well as ADHD symptoms checklists to determine whether you are able to meet the criteria for a diagnosis of ADHD. Your doctor will also ask for your family history and childhood information, as well as an in-depth description of your work and personal life. Your doctor could also recommend an exam to determine if there is a medical cause for your symptoms, like seizures or thyroid issues.

A physical exam consists of blood tests and an examination of the brain. These tests can help determine structural or chemical issues within the brain that could be causing ADHD symptoms. A physical exam may also help identify other conditions that can cause similar symptoms, such as depression or addiction to substances.

It is possible that your doctor may suggest that you take part in the clinical trials of new treatments for adults ADHD. These trials are conducted by research centers, such as NIMH. However, you should be aware that these research studies can have risks and may not result in a solution that is right for you.

Discuss with your doctor any other medications that you take, as these can interact with stimulants used to treat ADHD in adults. The effectiveness of stimulants may be affected by medications that affect appetite, sleep and blood pressure. The NIMH's Medication Interactions page will give you more information about how to discuss other medications with your doctor.

Treatment

For adults who are diagnosed with adhd diagnosis private, treatment options include behavioral therapy, medication and educational assistance. It's often the combination of these that can help people find success in school, work and other activities. Treatment should start with a referral from the primary care provider or other health care professional. Find out about the professional's education and experience in working with adults with ADHD. If a professional is unwilling in a position to provide this information, you should seek another professional.

The diagnostic process for adult ADHD typically includes interviews with the patient, parents or other significant others, as well as teachers. It may also include an extensive medical and family history, as well as psychiatric evaluation. It is essential that the person being assessed for diagnosing ADHD in adults ADHD be honest and not evading the test due to embarrassment or fear of being judged. A person has to show symptoms in more than one place and cause significant impairment in their daily lives before an ADHD diagnosis can be made.

Many adults suffering from untreated ADHD develop comorbid disorders, including anxiety and depression. This is especially true if those who suffer from ADHD have a history of chronic tension or frustration in their lives. The frustration can cause a self-fulfilling prophecy of underachievement and can lead to feelings of self-doubt and a lack of performance.

A diagnosis of ADHD may be a relief for some adults. They begin to see themselves and realize it wasn't their own responsibility for not being able to build an occupation or make friends. For certain adults, a diagnosis of ADHD may be accompanied by feelings of sadness and regret over missed opportunities that were left unexplored.

Adults who suffer from ADHD must always be ready to talk about their problems with co-workers and supervisors. Consider joining an ADHD support group where people who suffer from the condition can share their experiences and receive guidance. Anyone who have an ADHD diagnosis should verify their insurance coverage and get the names and phone numbers of specialists that specialize in treating adults who have ADHD.

Support

A person who is diagnosed with ADHD can get help for the symptoms and issues that afflict him or her at home, at work at relationships, at school and in many other settings. Treatments for adult ADHD typically include medication and psychotherapy. Some people also need specialized coaching to provide structure and help for their daily life.

Adults who are diagnosed with ADHD are often relieved to learn that their problems weren't due to bad parenting or lazyness. A diagnosis could be the first step to receiving the assistance they require.

Adults can also suffer from ADHD. It is more difficult to diagnose in children. Many adults suffer from undiagnosed ADHD.

A psychiatrist who has experience with this type of disorder can diagnose ADHD in adults by conducting a clinical interview. The interview may include questions regarding the patient's family history, diagnosing adhd in adults and also the person's own emotional and social history. Some doctors use computer programs or brain scans to assess a patient's. The majority of experts agree that a thorough interview is the best method to diagnose ADHD.

Depending on the severity and nature of the person's difficulties and co-existing disorders such as mood disorders, anxiety and learning disabilities that typically accompany ADHD, additional psychological and neuropsychological tests may be administered to determine the presence and effect of these conditions. The results of these tests may be useful in determining the right dosage of medication for a particular person.

Asking colleagues and friends to recommend specialists with expertise in diagnosing ADHD is a good idea. Then check their professional credentials, including academic degrees and the number of years they have worked. They must also be able to explain how their diagnosis process works and answer any questions you have. You can also find qualified professionals through the internet or on the phone book. Find out about their approach to counseling and what kind of therapy they might recommend for you.